Coach & Player Magazine Spring 2017 | Page 41

Seahawks opponent the day that Weiser was shooting was the Carolina Panthers, who would earn a 27-23 victory that day to move to 5-0 and eventually wind up in Super Bowl 50. Like an athlete or anyone in a chosen profession, Weiser has had a cast of mentors who have influenced his craft. It was Rich Ivens who sold Weiser his first DSLR camera. Gene Kaiser, now retired, and Robert Franklin of the South Bend Tribune had a tremendous influence on Weiser’s development. Robin Alam, John O’Connell (a professional with 60 years of experience), John Mersits, and J.R. Valderas (Multimedia Specialist at Holland Schools in Michigan) have all contributed to who Weiser is today. The guidance of his mentors has been important to Weiser’s evolution as a photographer as has the support of his wife and two children. Like an athlete or anyone in a chosen profession, Weiser has had a cast of mentors who have influenced his craft. Weiser will continue working his passion for USA Today in the near future. Ultimately, he aspires to become a staff photographer for a university, major network, maybe even the NFL. With the quality of his work and the right connection, it’s likely that Weiser’s dreams will come to fruition. Sometimes, it’s just funny how things work out. Joe Weiser’s portfolio spans all sports and captures every bit of the emotion. Coach & Player Magazine • Spring 2017 41